I am a natural product industry retail veteran, closing in on my 20th anniversary in this industry.  I am also a college professor and have an extensive background teaching Business Strategy, Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Organizational Behavior.  I write from both of these points of background.  Leveraging experience and insight I provide analysis and commentary to stimulate questions and discussion about trends and happenings in the natural products world and in society, and how they affect the natural products retailer.

Posts by Bill Crawford

in New Hope 360 Blog May. 11, 2012

5 innovative ways to grow retail sales

In an uncertain economy, every dollar counts. Try these five non-traditional and easy ways to increase your retail sales....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Apr. 27, 2012

Tips for retailers attending natural industry trade shows

Attending a natural industry trade show this year? Here are top tips for retailers to make the most of their time at these events....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Apr. 12, 2012

How many employees should a natural retailer have?

To staff up or staff down—it's the question on every business manager's mind. But the truth is, the mix is different for every natural retailer. Here....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Mar. 30, 2012

3 ways natural retailers can address the New Chapter acquisition

What should natural retailers do now that Procter & Gamble owns New Chapter? Here are three courses of action and their risks and rewards....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Mar. 16, 2012

Behind the scenes look at the Sprouts/Sunflower merger

Retail expert Bill Crawford digs into the details of the Sprouts/Sunflower merger announced last week and gives his advice for competing with the....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Mar. 4, 2012

What attracts repeat customers to your natural store

Today's consumers are particular about great customer service—but they're also willing to pay for it. Here's the most important ingredient for....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Feb. 17, 2012

Your natural business may be sustainable—but is your job?

Some 55 percent of employees say their workloads have increased as a result of the economy. What can you do to prevent burnout on the job, for you....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Feb. 3, 2012

U.S. Census trends show opportunities for natural retailers

New data from the latest U.S. Census reveals trends that natural retailers should consider in order for their businesses to continue to thrive....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Jan. 20, 2012

Help shoppers stick to their healthy weight loss goals

More shoppers than ever are making New Year's Resolutions to lose weight. But how many are actually sticking to the plan? Here's how natural....More
in New Hope 360 Blog Dec. 20, 2011

Tribute to a great man and natural retailer: Jim Hinkefent

Jim Hinkefent ran a great company that touched the lives of thousands in the Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Lincoln, Springfield, and Topeka communities....More